Clarington approves Courtice Waterfront Secondary Plan: a vision for a vibrant community on Lake Ontario

After years of careful planning—supported by technical studies, extensive community engagement, and consultation with environmental authorities—Clarington Council has approved the Courtice Waterfront Secondary Plan. This long-term framework sets the stage for a vibrant and sustainable waterfront community that harmonizes environmental protection with residential living, recreation, and visitor- and community-oriented commercial opportunities along the scenic shores of Lake Ontario. 

“We’re truly fortunate to be a waterfront community, stretching along the beautiful shores of Lake Ontario. I’m thrilled we now have a clear and exciting path forward to an amazing, publicly-accessible Courtice waterfront. One with a big new park where folks can walk lakeside trails, enjoy the serenity of Tooley Creek, grab an ice cream cone on a hot summer day, and maybe even find work or put down roots in a new home nearby,” said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster. “We’ve been refining this plan for years, with help and engagement from thousands of you, for this vibrant waterfront community. I thank everyone who helped shape it: from the technical experts to the environmental authorities and every resident who had their say. There's still plenty to do, and it'll take time, but exciting things are on the way." 

What’s in the Courtice Waterfront Secondary Plan?  

A municipal-wide park for all 

The Courtice Waterfront Secondary Plan envisions a prestigious new 16-hectare (bigger than the former Bowmanville Zoo lands!) municipal park situated along Lake Ontario. Historically, this area of the Courtice waterfront has been privately owned – aside from the small trail network that currently exists to the east. Through the framework of this Secondary Plan, the Courtice Waterfront Park can belong to the entire community of Clarington, significantly enhancing public access to the water, shoreline, beach and surrounding areas. This area will be carefully planned with community input as part of the Clarington Waterfront Strategy and future detailed design work. 

Protecting natural heritage 

The Secondary Plan prioritizes environmental protection for the Lake Ontario shoreline, Tooley Creek valleylands, and other sensitive areas. These lands will promote ecological integrity while providing scenic trails and passive recreation opportunities.  

Technical analyses have been completed to guide environmental protection policies. Throughout the process, the Municipality also worked closely with partner agencies, including the Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority (CLOCA), Ontario Parks, and the Region of Durham.  

Housing and growth 

The Courtice Waterfront Secondary Plan provides a framework for responsible growth, accommodating approximately 2,500 housing units for about 4,800 residents through a mix of single-detached homes, townhouses, mid‑rise apartments, and mixed‑use buildings with ground‑floor services. 

The lands designated Low Density Residential adjacent to Darlington Provincial Park will create a gradual transition to townhouses and three‑ to six‑storey buildings, with a maximum height of 15 storeys in the mixed‑use core—subject to further studies and required approvals. 

The community is planned to include a pedestrian-oriented prominent intersection, acting as a focal point for restaurants, cafés, and small shops near the Courtice Waterfront Park. This vibrant hub will create a welcoming space for residents and visitors, encouraging social interaction and supporting local businesses. 

This new residential area is expected to generate approximately 550 jobs in retail, hospitality, and community services. 

Enhanced trail network 

An active transportation network will connect the neighbourhood to the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, Lake Ontario shoreline and Tooley Creek. Multi-use paths, pedestrian bridges, and cycling facilities will make the area highly walkable and bike-friendly, linking to the broader municipal network and the future Courtice GO Station. 

A complete community 

With its mix of environmental protection, housing, retail, parks, and cultural amenities, the Courtice Waterfront Secondary Plan area has been designed as a complete, sustainable community that celebrates its natural setting while offering modern conveniences. 

Find more Frequently Asked Questions and information on the Courtice Waterfront Secondary Plan at www.clarington.net/CourticeWaterfront.